Wednesday, February 25, 2009

At Rural Action, we feel it is important to lift up positive examples of sustainable lifestyles. By following such examples, we can grow and strengthen the communities in our region. With that in mind, we are happy to announce that we are now accepting nominations for our 2009 Sustainability Awards. These awards are a chance for you to recognize individuals, businesses, and organizations that are helping to build better communities through their lifestyle, sustainable business practices, or professional efforts.

Last year’s awards honored three touchstones in sustainable development from Appalachian Ohio. The Athens Kroger was given the Sustainable Business award for their efforts to stock locally grown produce in their store. Greg Kremer of the Earth Justice Network was awarded Sustainable Livelihood for his efforts to cut back on his energy consumption, as well as his numerous volunteer activities. And our long-time friends Marshall and Betty Lowe were recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award for their years of work with Rural Action, dating back to the Appalachian Ohio Public Interest Campaign (AOPIC).

This year’s categories are Sustainable Livelihood, Sustainable Business, and Sustainable Partnership. Nominees should: work to create new models for living with respect for the Earth; have had a generous spirit and willingly share knowledge, experiences and personal resources with others; and leave the world a better place because of their personal and professional behavior.

So, if you know a person, business, or organization that you feel is deserving of a nomination, or if you would like more information about the Sustainability Awards, please contact Calaina Goodyear (cgoodyear@ruralaction.org) or call our offices (740.767.4938).

Nominations are due by April 13, 2009 and the winners will be announced at Rural Action’s Annual Meeting on May 8, 2009.